Agreeableness facet
Trust: a facet of agreeableness
The trust facet measures how much you assume other people are honest and well-intentioned.
What trust measures
Trust is one of six facets of agreeableness. It captures your default belief about other people: whether you expect them to be fair and honest, or approach them with caution until they prove themselves.
It's about the starting point, not about naivety. High scorers can still update when someone lets them down.
High trust
High scorers give people the benefit of the doubt. That openness makes collaboration easy and relationships quick to form, though it can occasionally leave them exposed.
- Assume good intentions
- Believe what people tell them
- Forgive easily
- Rarely suspect hidden motives
Low trust
Low scorers are skeptical until trust is earned. That caution protects them from being exploited and can make them sharp at spotting problems, though it may slow down new relationships.
- Question others' motives
- Want proof before relying on someone
- Keep guard up with new people
More agreeableness facets
Related guides
Common questions
Is low trust the same as paranoia?
No. Low trust is ordinary skepticism, a normal part of personality. Paranoia is an extreme, persistent belief that others mean you harm.
How can I trust more wisely?
Extend trust in small steps and increase it as people prove reliable. That works whether you start from high or low trust.
For self-reflection and education only. This isn't a clinical or diagnostic tool and isn't a substitute for professional psychological or medical advice.